Time of year for mammogram

ARLINGTON – Especially since it's October, Donna Marler of Cascade Valley Hospital says don't believe every horror story you hear.

ARLINGTON – Especially since it’s October, Donna Marler of Cascade Valley Hospital says don’t believe every horror story you hear.

“It’s uncomfortable but it doesn’t hurt,” Donna said about mammograms.

The hospital is staying open until 8 p.m. on Wednesdays so more women can fit them into their schedules as part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. They see about 100 more women each year this month, as they are able to come in after work.

The hospital is using direct mail and billboards to get the message out.

Donna said the screenings are quick. It can take longer to fill out the paperwork than to get the mammogram. You can walk in and out in an hour, she added.

Access is also a plus. While it can take a week to get into some places, some appointments can be made the next day.

“That’s really huge,” said Rachael Woods, marketing and communications program manager.

That can mean the world to people who are worrying and don’t want to wait.

“We have great equipment and people,” Woods said.

Donna said the images can be sent to the patient’s doctor.

Experts check the images and if there is no problem they receive a letter within a week. If they see something, Donna will give the patient a call.

“I tell them not to worry because 90 percent of the time it’s nothing,” she said.

Donna said it’s so important for women to start getting mammograms at age 40.

“It’s easy to treat” if caught early, she said.

Recommendations for mammograms have changed over the years, mostly because of insurance, Donna said. Since Cascade is now a part of Skagit Regional Health, it now accepts more times of insurance than before.

Donna still likes to see patients every year or two. Odds of breast cancer increase with age. Some doctors don’t recommend them after age 75, but she thinks people should keep coming until they’re 90.

Donna said the process does not have to be stressful. She said she knows a group of ladies who come together, and they have a few margaritas before they do.

“Come with a friend, and get to know your people” who take care of you, she said.